Reflexology, or zone therapy, is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hand with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. it is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with a premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.

HISTORY

The precursor of modern reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872-1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body.[6]

Reflexology was further developed in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham (1899-1974), a nurse and physiotherapist.[7][8] Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology. Modern reflexologists in the United States and the United Kingdom often learn Ingham's method first, although are there other more recently developed methods.[5]

Around the world and throughout history reflexology has been rediscovered and reinstated as a health practice time and time again by peoples around the globe seeking to deal with health concerns. Archeological evidence Egypt (2330 BCE), China (2704 BCE) and Japan (690 CE) points to ancient reflexology medical systems. In the West the concept of reflexology began to emerge in the 19th century, based on research into the nervous system and reflex. While no direct evidence of direct cross-fertilization from ancient times has been discovered, the practice of foot and hand work in a variety of cultures, belief systems and historical periods speaks to reflexology for health as a universal bridging concept.

What are the benefits of reflexology ?

In general terms the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body they are an easy way to interrupt the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body's equilibrium.

Whether reflexology can benefit certain conditions and diseases in still under investigation. Further scientific study need to be done in order to come to some definite benefits of reflexology in regard to illness and disease.

http://www.reflexology-research.com/whatis.htm

Reflexology is a complementary (or alternative) therapy, based on the same principles as Chinese acupuncture. Pressure-point massage of the feet was used in China over 5.000 years ago, as well as by the Ancient Egyptions, Hopi tribes of North America and 16th century European medical practitioners. Reflexology is based on the theory that every organ, area and system of the body is mirrored by a reflex point in the feet. By massaging these points in the feet the reflexologist can observe and facilitate a clearing of any blockages in the corresponding areas of the body.

There are various methods, such as the Rwo-Shur health method, the Ingham method and new approaches using magnets, special oils and colour. Like many complementary therapies, all reflexology is holistic as it treats the body as a whole. Reflexology is a natural, drug-free approach to relaxing the body-mind. It balances the circulatory, excretory, digestive, endocrine and immune systems. It helps the body to rid itself of toxins and promote healing, as well as effectively releasing muscular tension.

Due to it holistic approach, reflexology can be useful in treatment of conditions such as migraine, eczema, asthma, insomnia, low energy levels and stress, as well as being a treatment that relaxes and promotes good health and vitality.